Perspectives on microbial fuel cells cathode improvement for bioenergy generation

Abstract

Studies have shown the unlimited benefits attributed to using microbial fuel cell (MFC) in our scientific societies for the conversion of organic waste materials into bio-energy with the aid of micro-organisms catalyzed anode and enzymatic-microbial influenced cathode via electrochemical reactions. However, numerous shortcomings calling for serious investigations have equally been identified despite the inestimable benefits of this clean energy technology. A major one is the need for MFC cathode improvement to enhance bioenergy generation. The current situations and challenges of using MFC together with loop holes that are needed to be filled by researchers were critically explained. Additionally, this paper examines the importance of microbial fuel cells (MFCs) as a source of renewable energy generation. The major focus was on techniques of improving the output of MFCs via its cathode. The addition of catalyst on cathode surface, upscale integration of MFCs and antifouling of gas diffusion electrodes used in MFCs were discussed. Relevant areas that can be considered for future research on improvement of MFCs cathode for long term operation were stated.

Keywords

• Microbial fuel cells
• Bioenergy generation
• MFC cathode improvement
• Clean energy technology
• Wastewater treatment